Mobility Scooters

How to Determine If a Mobility Scooter is Right for You

Mobility scooters are a popular alternative to your standard wheelchair because they are usually cheaper and available in more stylish models. Although most mobility scooters are electric, gasoline powered scooters are also available in some countries. The scooter can reach up to ten miles per hour and is suitable for roads and hills.

There are many reasons why an individual may choose a mobility scooter over an electric wheelchair. One reason is purely aesthetic as mobility scooters often have a more appealing design. In addition, there can be psychological benefits associated with riding a scooter rather than a wheelchair.

However, before you make your decision, there are some important factors to consider.

Circumstances Surrounding Your Need for a Mobility Aid

Mobility scooters are a suitable choice for individuals who are unable to walk on their own as well as individuals who experience difficulty walking for long periods of time. However, depending on the extent of your physical disabilities, the mobility scooter may not be the best option. The main reason for this is that it will be harder to maneuver around tight corners in your home. Although mobility scooters are available in a more compact form, they are still more difficult to maneuver than electric wheelchairs due to their longer design. This is an important factor to consider if you are unable to move around without the help of a mobility aid. In addition, mobility scooters require you to use both hands to steer. This makes it unsuitable for individuals who are unable to use both hands due to weak muscles or paralysis.

Financial Constraints

Although manual wheelchairs are usually the cheapest option, not all individuals have the upper body strength to operate one. Mobility scooters have increased in popularity because they are cheaper than electric wheelchairs. Although there are different subsidies that exist for both mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs, not every individual will qualify for this type of financial assistance. When this is the case, mobility scooters are a more attractive option.

The Extent of the Support You Require

If you require a mobility aid to perform basic functions around the home, a mobility scooter may not be the best choice. Because electric wheelchairs are highly customizable, they are usually better equipped to give you the physical support that you require to complete your day to day tasks. If you expect to spend most of the day in your mobility aid, electric wheelchairs are generally more comfortable since many of them have tilt and recline options.

Personal Hobbies

Your personal interests also play an important role in determining if a mobility scooter is right for you. If you enjoy spending a lot of time outdoors in places like public parks, mobility scooters are a great option because they operate well on roads, hills and fields. However, if you enjoy going to enclosed public spaces such as shopping malls, mobility scooters may pose a problem since it is more difficult to turn tight corners or quickly avoid obstacles.